Mandelson breezes through Parliament hearing

The British Commissioner designate emphasised that
multilateralism would be the main tool of his trade policy.
He also pointed to the importance of the
EU’s partnership with the US. 

Peter Mandelson, British Commissioner designate for
trade policy, made a good impression on MEPs in his
hearing on 4 October 2004, showing a solid understanding
of his future portfolio.

A strong proponent of multilateralism, Mandelson
pointed out that trade policy could make a powerful
contribution to economic growth across the globe « as long
as we recognise the need for special and differential
treatment for the poorest ». 

On reducing EU agricultural subsidies, Mandelson
confirmed his commitment to carry forward existing
reforms, as they were in the interest of both EU and
developing countries. However, he emphasised that the
success of world trade talks depended on the US joining
the EU in ending export subsidies and decreasing import
barriers. 

« In our proposals to eliminate export subsidies, we
look for that to be matched by other countries, notably
the United States, » Mandelson said. « If it’s not matched,
the benefits for developing countries will be
significantly reduced. »

The EU-US partnership is of prime importance for
Mandelson.  »
The biggest problems in the
world – economic,

 
security – rely on Europe
working together with the United States in partnership, »
he said. 

Referring to recent quarrels over government aid to
Boeing and Airbus, Mandelson called upon the US not to
let these concerns turn into another dispute. 

Mandelson emphasised his pro-European stance,
saying that he was 
« a true British European,
rather than a Brit that simply looks 

 
across the Atlantic to the
United States ».

 While recognising a role for him in campaigning for
a ‘yes’ vote on the Constitution in the UK, Mandelson
pointed out that his main priority was to drive
forward World Trade Organisation negotiations with
the aim of completing talks on a new world trade deal in
2006.